Kansai International Airport (KIX), the primary gateway to Osaka and the wider Kansai region, is anticipating a significant transformation in its international visitor landscape this upcoming holiday season. While the total number of travelers is expected to remain robust, a notable shift in their origins points to a new era for tourism in Western Japan.
A New Look for Year-End Travel
Kansai Airports has released its forecast for the 10-day year-end and New Year period, spanning from December 26, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The airport projects that approximately 734,800 international passengers will pass through its terminals. This figure represents a slight 4% decrease compared to the previous year, but the real story lies within the demographic breakdown of these travelers.
The most striking change is the shift in the top source of inbound visitors. For years, mainland China has been a dominant market for Kansai’s tourism industry. However, this holiday season, traffic from China is projected to fall to third place.
The Rise of South Korean and Southeast Asian Tourism
In place of the declining numbers from China, Kansai is set to welcome a surge of visitors from two other key regions:
- South Korea: Travelers from South Korea are expected to claim the top spot, showcasing a dramatic increase in interest for destinations like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
- Southeast Asia: Nations from this region are also contributing to a considerable rise in passenger numbers, indicating a successful diversification of Kansai’s tourism appeal.
This trend is largely attributed to a reduction in the number of scheduled flights from China. However, it also reflects broader economic and travel industry dynamics. The persistent weakness of the Japanese yen has made Japan an exceptionally affordable and attractive destination for tourists from South Korea and Southeast Asian countries, fueling their appetite for travel to the region.
Future Implications for the Kansai Region and Travelers
This structural change in inbound tourism carries significant implications for the future of travel in Kansai.
For the Travel Industry
The decreased dependency on the Chinese market suggests a more resilient and diversified tourism ecosystem. Airlines are likely to respond by re-evaluating and adjusting their route networks, potentially increasing the frequency of flights from Seoul, Busan, Bangkok, Singapore, and other major hubs in rising markets. Hotels, tour operators, and local businesses will also need to adapt their services and marketing strategies to cater to the cultural preferences and languages of this new wave of visitors.
For Future Travelers
For those planning a trip to Osaka and the surrounding areas, this shift could bring positive changes. The diversification of visitor origins may lead to a more cosmopolitan atmosphere at popular tourist spots. Furthermore, an increase in flight options from South Korea and Southeast Asia could result in more competitive airfares and convenient travel schedules. As the region adapts, travelers can expect to see enhanced multilingual support beyond just English and Chinese, making for a more welcoming experience for a wider range of international guests.
In conclusion, while the overall passenger numbers show a slight dip, the data from Kansai International Airport paints a picture of a dynamic and evolving tourism landscape. The Kansai region is entering a new chapter, one defined by a broader array of international visitors, promising fresh energy and new opportunities for one of Japan’s most beloved destinations.
